Strong winds are easing in parts of the country, as wild weather moves North

Alpine Energy's restored power to about 300 properties around Timaru, after severe gales battered the area last night.

Canterbury's wind warnings have been lifted, but gusts are now hammering Wellington and Wairarapa.

Just over 9,000 customers are without power in Wellington.

MetService Meteorologist John Law says heavy rain's also expected for the West Coast in the hours ahead.

Mr Law says ranges in Buller, Grey and Tasman will catch most of the rainfall, which will stay around for a while.